By Rich Campbell -
The Washington Times -
Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Fred Davis‘ best contributions to the Washington Redskins‘ offense usually occur in the passing game. The tight end’s athleticism creates matchup problems for opposing defenses. His team-leading 53 catches and 697 receiving yards are proof.

His run blocking, meanwhile, isn’t always as productive.

“I’ve got to be more consistent at it because I don’t want to be a one-sided tight end that can only pass catch,” Davis said.

Davis‘ run blocking has significantly impacted the offense since his role expanded because of Chris Cooley’s injuries. That the Redskins rank 29th in the NFL with a 3.73 yards-per-carry average is not exactly a ringing endorsement.

At least Davis knows what he needs to improve on. It was evident against Seattle on Sunday. One first-and-goal from the 6-yard line in the second quarter, running back Roy Helu took a handoff around the right edge.

Davis ran from the right side of the formation to the second level and blocked middle linebacker David Hawthorne for a moment. But Hawthorne slipped the block, got to the sideline and stopped Helu for only 2 yards.

“For me, I’ve got to stay on a guy longer because I’m smaller,” said Davis, who is 6-4, 245 pounds. “I’ve got to finish to the end of the play or I’m going to get taken advantage of.”

Extra points

• Defensive end Stephen Bowen (torn PCL in his knee) sat out Wednesday’s practice but is optimistic about playing against the New York Jets.

“A lot of the pain has gone away,” he said. “It hurt a lot the last two days, but today I felt pretty good. The way it feels, I’m planning to play on Sunday.”

• Strong safety LaRon Landry’s groin strain kept him out of practice. Coach Mike Shanahan called it a “setback.”

• The Redskins promoted seventh-round rookie cornerback Brandyn Thompson from the practice squad to the 53-man roster after another team offered to sign him, Shanahan said. The Redskins made room by cutting cornerback D.J. Johnson, who did not play in a game.

• Cornerback DeAngelo Hall was named NFC defensive player of the week despite surrendering a fourth-quarter touchdown against Seattle. He did have an interception and was credited with seven pass breakups.